BROOKLYN, N.Y., MARCH 11TH, 1935
BROOKLYN, N.Y., MARCH 11TH, 1935
Mr. E. McCrea.
Beloved Brother, — I duly received your letter of August 29th, 1934, and was glad to get it. I was also glad to get all the items of news you kindly sent. New Zealand is always much on our hearts, and we can pray all the more intelligently as we have knowledge of current happenings.
In regard to remarks in the London notes as to publicity of cases of discipline, I think what is said in the notes is scriptural. In a small community, of course, where something flagrant occurs and is known to the public, it is wise to make clear that the brethren are with God about it, and have dealt with it in accordance with His mind. One can understand how this would be applicable in New Zealand. Sorrowful cases of sin, alas, occur generally in those nominally walking with us, but there seems to have been an epidemic of this in New Zealand. It is likely that the Lord has allowed certain flagrant cases to bring the general state home to the brethren. As we “cry out”, He pays attention to us and helps us. Compare Mark 6: 50.
As regards Mr. Joseph Dean, it seems that he is now definitely engaged in the Lord’s work and has been moving about in the West somewhat freely during the past winter. An address of his delivered in Berkeley last spring was typed and circulated, and copies went to Great Britain. An attack was made upon it by J. McB———. The address itself was very defective, and Dean finally agreed to withdraw it, humbling himself because of it. This has commended him somewhat, but many are still concerned as to his tendency to exaggeration and inaccuracy. I hope, however, the Lord will help our brother, and that he may be generally acceptable and useful.
You will be aware by this time that Arnold Heath married [p. 456] our sister Miss Midgley of Staten Island. They are now on their way to Auckland with the full fellowship of brethren here. I believe our sister will be in every way acceptable to our brethren in the Auckland district.
The work of God in America is generally satisfactory, and, indeed, encouraging. I have not hitherto seen such interest in the saints around New York as has been noticeable this winter. My wife and I hope to sail for England on April 8th, returning about August 20th, after which I hope, if the Lord permit, to attend the meetings at Vancouver in early September.
With our united love in Christ to Mrs. McCrea and yourself,
I am,
Yours affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.